Catholicos of All Armenians Karekin II, accompanied by senior clergy members, visited the Sardarapat memorial complex, where he recited the Lord’s Prayer and honored the memory of those killed in the May battles.
In a message marking Republic Day, the Catholicos said Armenians must unite in the face of current internal and external challenges and work together to strengthen the state and national life.
“From the Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin, we extend Our Patriarchal blessing and congratulations to all our people in the homeland and throughout the Diaspora on the occasion of Republic Day,” the statement said.
Commemorating the establishment of the First Republic of Armenia, Karekin II recalled the battles of Sardarapat, Gharakilisa and Bash-Aparan.
He stressed that Catholicos Gevorg V played a decisive role during those historic struggles for survival.
“In the life-and-death struggle, the brave sons of our people, including clergy of our Holy Church, achieved victory and secured for future generations the right to live freely and independently on their native land,” the message stated.
The Catholicos also praised the dedication of Armenians in more recent periods, saying many sacrificed their lives for the security and future of the country.
“Today, as a nation, we bow our heads before our heroes and keep their bright memory alive in our hearts,” he said.
The message concluded with a prayer for peace and stability for Armenia and Armenians worldwide.
On May 28, 1918, the Armenian National Council declared the establishment of the independent Republic of Armenia. Just three years after displacement and genocide, the Armenian people managed to organize, defend themselves, achieve victory and establish statehood.
